Compressor HVAC: Service and Repair
A/C Compressor Replacement1. If the A/C compressor is marginally operable, run the engine at idle speed, and let the air conditioning work for a few minutes, then shut the engine off.
2. Make sure you have the anti-theft codes for the audio and the navigation system, then write down the audio presets.
3. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
4. Recover the refrigerant with a recovery/recycling/charging station.
5. Remove the ignition coil cover, and the alternator.
6. Remove the A/C compressor clutch connector (A) from the A/C condenser fan shroud (B). Disconnect the A/C condenser fan connector (C), then remove the wire harness clip (D) from the A/C condenser fan shroud. Remove the hose (E) from the radiator. Loosen the lower mounting bolt, then remove the upper mounting bolts and the A/C condenser fan shroud. Be careful not to damage the radiator fins when removing the A/C condenser fan shroud.
7. Disconnect the A/C compressor clutch connector (A). Remove the bolt and the nut, then disconnect the suction line (B) and discharge line (C) from the A/C compressor. Plug or cap the lines immediately after disconnecting them to avoid moisture and dust contamination.
8. Remove the mounting bolts and the A/C compressor. Be careful not to damage the radiator fins when removing the A/C compressor.
9. Install the A/C compressor in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
- If you're installing a new A/C compressor, you must calculate the amount of refrigerant oil to be removed from it.
- Replace the O-rings with new ones at each fitting, and apply a thin coat of refrigerant oil before installing them. Be sure to use the correct O-rings for HFC-134a (R-134a) to avoid leakage.
- Use refrigerant oil (DENSO ND-OIL 8) for HFC-134a DENSO piston type A/C compressor only.
- To avoid contamination, do not return the oil to the container once dispensed, and never mix it with other refrigerant oils.
- Immediately after using the oil, reinstall the cap on the container, and seal it to avoid moisture absorption.
- Do not spill the refrigerant oil on the vehicle, it may damage the paint. If the refrigerant oil contacts the paint, wash it off immediately.
- Be careful not to damage the radiator fins when installing the A/C compressor, the alternator or the A/C condenser fan shroud.
- Charge the system.
- Reset the power window control unit.
- Enter the anti-theft codes for the audio and the navigation system, then enter the audio presets.